Ouagadougou-Hubert Bowendsom Tapsoba, a recent graduate from the National School of Public Works of Burkina, has proposed significant modifications to the CEBTP method commonly used for road construction in Burkina Faso. In his thesis, Tapsoba highlighted the method’s shortcomings in accounting for local climatic realities, arguing that adaptations are necessary to enhance the sustainability of the country’s road infrastructure. According to Tapsoba, the current CEBTP method fails to integrate critical parameters, leading to premature deterioration of roadways due to the region’s specific traffic and environmental conditions.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the method underestimates heavy traffic impacts and fails to consider the mechanical characteristics and behaviors of local materials. Tapsoba suggested the integration of Alizé software to improve the assessment and design of road structures, which can factor in the actual traffic loads, material quality, and environmental stresses roads face in Burkina Faso. He also criticized the existing method’s neglect of material stiffness, which is crucial for roads to revert to their original form after bearing loads.

Tapsoba’s recommendations extend to educational reforms, urging his alma mater to develop and promote road construction methods and software that better reflect the local conditions. His dissertation director, Lazare Comberé, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that road longevity issues often stem from inadequate initial design rather than just poor construction. Comberé called for an overhaul of design and sizing methodologies to prevent early road wear and tear. The thesis was well-received, earning a high distinction from the evaluating panel at the National School of Public Works.

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